America! America! God shed his grace on thee.
Grace is God’s unmerited favor. It’s something we don’t deserve. Maybe I”m just getting old, but it seems to me America is deserving grace less and less. I know that as God’s child I benefit from His love and grace even when He isn’t particularly proud of me. When I stumble and fall He still loves me. I am still His.
But there are consequences to my sin. Even when there is forgiveness, there is often harm and hurt that must be dealt with. I know that His mercy endures forever, but I also know that each step taken outside of His will draws me further away from His plan for me.
God has blessed this country for a very long time. His grace has been so abundant that we have come to expect it and, even to believe that we deserve it. We certainly don’t. It’s not like we ever deserved it. But the way we have drifted, I can’t believe He will pour out His grace on America forever.
The countries of Europe where Christianity bloomed have long ago turned away from Him and the effects of the withdrawal of His grace are becoming evident. There churches stand as empty museums or mosques. In the older sections of our country, the northeast, New England, it’s becoming quite similar. This country is gradually becoming a Christian wasteland.
We can, and should, pray for his continued grace; but we really can’t expect it. Not as a country.
While standing in front of a hot grill today or eating burgers or watching fireworks, thank Him for where His grace has taken you personally. Pray for your children and grandchildren. They will not likely grow up in the grace blessed country that we did. The good news is that it seems in countries where Christians are the minority, their persecution makes them stronger and closer to Him. That’s more important than being financially strong or a military power.
Happy Birthday America. I hardly recognize you. You’re getting old and forgetful, and you’re beginning to show it.
Be blessed.
Nick
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